Straight to the Point

Our favorite water filters from Brita and Culligan were easy to install, looked good, and have certifications that ensure their quality,

UVDF supply professional and honest service.

The importance of having access to clean, filtered water in everyday kitchens can make all the difference. While most tap water is safe to imbibe, whatever chemicals are used to clean it (cough chlorine cough) can affect its flavor. Not only can a glass of water taste bleh, but it can also actually negatively impact the taste of tea and coffee.

This is why we set out to find the best faucet filter by testing four popular models. We examined how easy they were to install and use, the effectiveness of the filter, how much replacement filters cost, and what certifications they had.

Editor's Note

One of our favorite filters, from DuPont, was discontinued. We've removed it as a winner and added a high-performer from Culligan in its place.

The Winners, at a Glance

The Brita is a solid all-around choice. This particular filter had the second fastest flow rate, was lightweight and sleek in appearance, and included a button that changes colors depending on how close the filter is to expiration. It also boasted the longest time between filter changes in our lineup.  

The Culligan impressed us with its speedy flow rate and sleek look. It's a reasonably-priced option that's simple to install, if a bit tricky to master while in use (to activate the filter, a pin must be pulled out mid-stream). Replacement filters are affordable, last for up to 200 gallons, and are easy to find online.

The Different Kinds of Water Filters

While it can be easy to recognize why you may want to filter water, choosing a filter type and model can be unduly complicated. Here are the general types and how they work:

• Faucet Filters: For those looking for filtered water every time they use the kitchen sink, a faucet filter is a great option. These filters can be attached directly to the faucet itself, providing the opportunity to switch between unfiltered and filtered water.
• Water Filter Pitchers: Water filter pitchers generally consist of a few components, including a water basin, a lid that doubles as a water reservoir (to hold the filtering water), and a filter that releases water into the basin. Pitchers are great options for portability, or if you like your water chilled, since you can pop them into the fridge. Unfortunately, each pitcher is limited by its size, so repeated refills are needed.
• Reverse Osmosis Filter: A reverse osmosis can be connected directly to the sink&#;s water source. According to the folks over at Culligan it &#;is typically a multistage process that includes pushing the water through a specialized, semipermeable membrane as well as other types of filters. The end result is cleaner water for drinking, cooking, and other uses.&#; This style of filter is often more expensive and requires a more involved installation process. 

What Certifications Mean

Faucet filters often promise to filter out unsavory ingredients such as lead, chlorine, cadmium, and mercury from water. It&#;s important to make sure this is true. The authorities on water quality are the Water Quality Association (WQA), the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF), and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Each institution ensures that filters have undergone rigorous testing to meet qualifications. Some certifications to look for are NSF/ANSI Standard 53, NSF/ANSI Standard 42, NSF/ANSI 401, and NSF/ANSI 372. 

We would like to note that although most faucet filters remove a lot of chemicals and unsavory things from water, they&#;re unable to remove perfluoroalkyl and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, or PFAs. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, PFAs are &#;widely used, long-lasting chemicals, components of which break down very slowly over time.&#; To find all the details about water certifications, check out our review of water filter pitchers. 

The Tests

• Flow Rate Test: We examined and recorded the flow rate of the filter while filling a gallon bucket with water.
• Blind Taste Test: In order to determine how well each filter worked, we conducted a blind taste test using unfiltered tap water, filtered tap water, and bottled water.
• Change Filter Test: By changing in and out filters, we gauged the overall ease of the process.

What We Learned

How Water Faucet Filters Work

The intricacies of the filtering process can differ depending on the specific model of the water faucet filter, but the basics remain the same. After attaching the filter and mounting base directly to a faucet, you flip a switch (or pull out a pin, in the case of the Culligan). The water then flows until it reaches the filtration section. According to Culligan, &#;the water passes through a &#;sediment trap.&#; This screen helps remove particles of sediment like dirt or sand. After that, the water is typically sent through a block of activated carbon and zeolite, which is full of pores that trap contaminants like chlorine.&#; This process ensures that some of the worst (and perhaps slimiest of) offenders never make it into your drinking glass.

When it comes to brewing coffee, for example, filtered water is essential. &#;Water that&#;s too soft has a hard time actually pulling the good-tasting solids out of the coffee bed,&#; writes former commerce writer Jesse Raub. &#;At the same time, it&#;s really hard to control the chemical makeup of your tap. A good rule of thumb is to start with a carbon water filter.&#;

All But One Filter Removed All Traces of Flavor

While conducting the blind taste test, we found that the Brita, Culligan, and DuPont filtered out all flavors found in the unfiltered water. (We never knew we could describe water in so many ways until this test.) Our untampered and unfiltered water tasted faintly metallic, so we were disappointed that the water filtered by PUR had traces of that flavor. 

Setup Was (Almost) Painless

We always enjoy simple instructions when it comes to setting up any kitchen fixture. (We&#;ve banged our heads against enough walls in frustration when building cheap furniture, thank you!) Most setups consisted of loading the filter cartridge into the faucet mount and then screwing on the entire appliance to the faucet itself. The PUR, Brita, and Culligan each included adapters for faucets that are either internally or externally threaded. But everything got a little dicey when we found out the hard way that the Brita cartridge was not screwed on entirely&#;the filter chamber filled with water and then sent the cartridge flying up and off the mount (and into our face). The lesson? Make sure the filter is properly attached before turning on the water.

Each Filter Required An Initial Flush

If you would like to take your filter home, set it up, and guzzle down the very first glass of filtered water, think again. Every filter required running water through the filter for at least five minutes before use. The Culligan&#;s initial flush lasted for even longer, clocking in at 10 minutes (we were baffled to find the flushed water ran a bit warm at first even though we ran cold water through the system). The flush serves two purposes: 1. To activate the filter. 2. To clean out any dust or other debris inside the chamber. Each filter also comes with a warning to only filter cold water&#;since hot water can cause damage to the filter&#;so it&#;s important to change to the &#;unfiltered&#; setting before doing something like washing dishes.  

Filters Last Approximately Two to Four Months

If you&#;re staying as hydrated as possible (get that glowing skin, friends!) then odds are you&#;ll be putting your filter through the wringer. Most faucet filters need to be replaced every two to four months, depending on use. The Culligan has the shortest filter usage period since the company recommends swapping out each filter approximately every two months. On the other end of the spectrum, the Brita lasts for a proposed four months. The PUR and DuPont suggest filter changes every three months. Not sure if you&#;ll be able to keep track of time? We recommend the Brita for its indicator light. As the filter loses its life, the light changes from flashing green to flashing amber, to flashing red.

The Criteria: What to Look For in a Faucet Water Filter

During testing, we looked for filters that were easy to install, use, and replace. We also considered how effective the filter is by conducting a blind taste test and checking to make sure that each is officially ANSI/NSI certified. 

Our Favorite Faucet Filters

What we liked: The Brita&#;s flow rate was the second fastest of the bunch, filtering one gallon in one minute and 24 seconds. Unlike the other filters, this one only needs a filter change every four months. Even better? It comes with a filter light to let you know when the filter needs changing! Overall, the filter is lightweight, simple, and sleek, and it fits in well with other chrome appliances. Plus, at the time of testing, it was half the cost of the DuPont (our previous, now-discontinued winner).

What we didn&#;t like: We found out the hard way that the filter cartridge needed to be fastened very securely to the main section of the filter unit, otherwise the built-up water sent the cartridge flying. Once fastened properly, we did not have this issue again.

Key Specs

• Dimensions: 6.1 x 2.4 x 8.5 inches
• Materials: Plastic, chrome
• Filter: Requires replacement every 100 gallons/every four months; buy 2 replacement filters for $25
• Certifications: NSF/ANSI Standard 53; NSF/ANSI Standard 42
• Flow rate: 0.71 gallons per minute
• What&#;s included: 1 filter device, 1 filter cartridge, 2 adaptors for 13/16- and 15/16-inch size faucets

What we liked: Most importantly, this filter produced clean, neutral-tasting water. We were very impressed with the Culligan&#;s flow rate: It filtered a gallon of water in a mere one minute and 19 seconds, much faster than our previous winner, the DuPont. Replacement filters are $19 per filter, which is relatively affordable. On that note, the filter cartridge should be replaced every 200 gallons, as opposed to Brita's every 100. The filter is sleek and nice-looking.

What we didn't like: Activation of the filter itself&#;once affixed and flushed&#;was not intuitive. We had to pull out a pin on the side of the machine for the filtration to begin. This activation only works if the water is already running relatively steadily.

Key Specs

• Dimensions: 5.5 x 3.5 x 6.5 inches
• Materials: Metal
• Filter: Replace filter every 200 gallons or 2 months, although cartridge life can vary depending on water usage and conditions.
• Certifications: Tested and certified by IAPMO against ANSI Standard 42 and 53 (Tested and Certified by NSF International to NSF/ANSI Std. 42 for the aesthetic reduction of Chlorine Taste and Odor, Nominal Particulate Class I. Std. 53&#;Lead, Turbidity Lindane, Atrazine reduction.)
• Flow rate: 0.75 gallons per minute
• What&#;s included: 1 filter device, 1 filter cartridge

The Competition

• PUR PLUS Faucet Mount Water Filtration System: The PUR sounded great on paper: it has the right certifications and was super easy to set up. However, aesthetically, we cannot stand the bulky, ghostly white appearance that sticks out from the rest of our kitchen appliances. And, less pettily, we were very disappointed to find that we tasted some metallic flavor in the filtered water.
• DuPont WFFM100XCH Premier Faucet Mount Drinking Water Filter: Although this faucet previously held the winning spot on our list owing to its simple setup, smooth flow, and sleek aesthetic, it has been discontinued.

FAQs

How does a faucet filter work? 

The filter is attached directly to the faucet itself. As the unfiltered water flows into the filtration section, it is purified by a screen that filters out larger particles. The next part of the process&#;a section often made up of activated carbon and zeolite&#;takes care of smaller impurities.

What&#;s the difference between a faucet filter, a water filter pitcher, and a reverse osmosis filtration system?

While each filter has the same purpose&#;to cleanse water of a variety of harmful chemicals and other impurities&#;faucet filters, water filter pitchers, and reverse osmosis filtration systems are all set up differently. The faucet filter affixes to the faucet itself; water filter pitchers are freestanding pitchers to which unfiltered water can be added; and reverse osmosis filtration systems are often attached under the sink to the tap water source.

How much do filter cartridges cost? 

Since every filter is different, replacement cartridges can vary in price. Cartridges can usually be purchased in sets, either directly from the company&#;s website, or online elsewhere. Price can greatly depend on the bulk of cartridges ordered but we have found that the range can go from $13 for two (such as for PUR) to $46 for a set of three (such as for DuPont).

How can I find out what is in my tap water?

There are a couple of ways to determine what exactly is in your water. Many water suppliers provide an annual Consumer Confidence Report. But if this is not the case, we recommend visiting the United States Environmental Protection Agency's website to access the information. You can also use a self-administered test in order to find out if you have hard water (we&#;ve used the Premium Water Hardness Test Kit).

What does a filter get rid of? 

Faucet filters are excellent for removing both health and non-health-related impurities, depending on their certifications. This means that any certified filter is likely to remove things like lead, chlorine, cadmium, and more. However, most filters are not powerful enough to remove some long-lasting chemicals, such as those that fall under the umbrella of PFAs. Read more about water filtration in our review of water pitcher filters.

Is a PUR or Brita filter better?

The PUR faucet filter we tested had the right certifications, but it fell short on performance. The water we filtered with it tasted metallic. Regarding aesthetics, It's hard to get used to the enormous attachment. The Brita has a more discreet profile, cleanly filtered water, and only needed to have its filter changed every four months.

Why We're the Experts

• Abigail Clarkin is a contributor to Serious Eats who has written numerous tested reviews, including pepper mills, personal blenders, and tea infusers.
• For this article, she tested four water filters, evaluating them according to a variety of metrics including their official health and safety certifications, a blind taste test, and a timed flow rate.

6 ways to get the best drinking water:

When buying a water purifier / filter, also consider:

• Filters are designed to filter specific contaminants, test your water first to find out what yours are.
• You will have to regularly change the filters, factor in the cost of replacing filters .
• Check how much water your family uses, include water used for cooking. Countertop and undersink filters can usually filter lots of water.
• Filtering water can be slow with some types, carafe and reverse osmosis filters can be slowest.

1. Water Filters

Designed to mimic the natural flow of water through rocks (etc) by slowly letting the water move through the internal filters, these water purifiers remove potentially noxious elements found in tap water (bacteria, nitrates, chlorine, sulphates, heavy metals, chemicals&#;*). The success rate of the various filtration stages can be very impressive. They can eliminate up to 98% of the harmful substances and many types of bacteria and microbes*. Some filters also increase the pH of the water, which is ideal for a healthy body and good assimilation*.

*Please check details with each manufacturer.

Features & Benefits*:

• Ideal for family and groups
• No electricity needed
• Provides clean and healthy water for drinking or cooking
• Can remove toxic elements up to 98%
• Easy to assemble
• Uses filter for the various stages to produce purer water
• Savings over bottled water

Click here for water filters, including a shower filter

2. Water Filter Jugs

These usually come as compact size jugs, which fit in your fridge and have a similar filtration method as the gravity water filters, although on a smaller scale. They can have multiple-step filtration systems, removing mostly impurities from tap water, including calcium carbonate, common in hard water areas, which causes the build-up of lime scale in kitchen appliances. Some claim to reduce levels of herbicides, pesticides and chlorine by up to 80%. Please check details with each manufacturer.

Features & Benefits*:

• Fits in the fridge so keeps the water cool
• No electricity needed
• Provides clean and healthy water for drinking or cooking
• Modest removal rate of toxins [not as effective as a gravity water filter]
• No assembly required
• Low price option amongst the water filters, but has probably the least effect on water

3. Water Ionisers

Water Ionisers have become popular in recent years. They are an appliance, designed to raise the pH of drinking water by using electrolysis to separate the incoming water stream into acidic and alkaline components. Some also remove chlorine, chloramines, lead, bacteria, rust, arsenic and traces of pharmaceuticals from your tap water. Plus beneficial magnesium and calcium minerals are added along with an ionic charge that creates hydrogen rich, antioxidant water that is great tasting and silky smooth, as well as better for hydration and absorption of nutrients. Ranging in price and function, choose from an electric system to a more simple gravity powered version. Please check details with each manufacturer.

Alkaline water, described as water with a value on the pH scale higher than 7 (7 is neutral), has increased in popularity in recent years due to rising awareness about its potential health benefits. Advocates of alkaline water praise its ability to help the body deal with chronic metabolic acidosis, a root cause of many adult degenerative bodily conditions. Acidosis is a result of a number of factors including poor diet, stress and environmental conditions. For more information about the Alkaline Diet, please also read our Alkaline Diet Resources.

Features & Benefits*:

• Restructures the water and increases the pH up to 10
• Provides clean and healthy water for drinking or cooking
• High removal rate of toxins through filtration
• Removes acidic water during ionising process
• Fitting can be done by pretty much anyone (no plumber needed)
• Prices vary heavily and it is generally the most costly water filtration system

4. Water Distillers

The only guaranteed way to get pure water is through steam distillation by using a water distiller. Distilled water is 99.8% pure, which means it is purer that any bottled or tap water and purer than using any other type of filtration or purification method. Water is gently boiled to kill off viruses and bacteria. The steam produced is captured in a stainless steel coil where it cools to form pure water. This passes through an activated charcoal filter to remove any trace impurities. It is recommended, to add minerals back to the water, as during the distillation process the water is purified to a point that it could be lacking these essential minerals. This intensive process can have an effect on the taste of water, which may not be to everyones liking.

Features & Benefits*

• Water is heated and then filtered through a carbon filter in the form of evaporation
• Provides 100% pure water
• Very high removal rate of toxins
• Needs minerals adding after the distillation process
• No assembly required

5. Reverse Osmosis

Reverse Osmosis is a technology that is used to remove the large majority (98%+) of contaminants from water. The reverse osmosis system works by pushing the water under pressure through a number of increasingly smaller filters and finally through a semi-permeable membrane essentially trapping all contaminants. Depending on manufacturer, tends to remove inorganic elements, like Aluminum, Arsenic, Barium, Benzene, Cadmium, Calcium, Chloride, Chromium VI, Copper, Fluoride, Iron, Lead, Magnesium, Manganese, Mercury II, Nitrate, Potassium, Selenium IV, Silver, Sodium, Strontium, Sulphate, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) and Zinc. Can also remove organic elements, like Adrazin, Aldrin, Chlorine, Chloroform, Dichlormethane, DOT, Endrin, Fluoranthene, Herbicides, Lindane, Methoxychlor, PCB, Perchlorethylene, Pesticides, Phenole, Tannic Acids, Toxaphene, Trichlorethlene, Trihalomethanes, V.O.C.&#;s. Please check details with each manufacturer.

The downside is that RO machines may increase water bills by up to one third, due to the waste stream. It also alters the water so that it can taste very differently and much less pleasant.
Features & Benefits*:

• Water is filtered by pressure
• Works well in properties with good water pressure
• Provides excellent filtration especially for heavy metals
• Needs minerals adding after the distillation process
• Installation is required
• Filters range from 4 to 7 stages

6. pH Drops

Although not a water filter, these clever drops add an alkalising boost to your water. A great way to give your drinking water additional minerals after filtration or distillation. These pH drops will restructure the water, enabling the water to hydrate the body more effectively (similar to a water ionizer). For more information, click here.

Click here to view pH drops available from SimplexHealth

* Our Product information as well as list of Features & Benefits is a summary. Please always check details for each product with the manufacturer.

Further Reading:

• For further information from an independent source, we can recommend the Leaflet from DWI/DEFRA about filters and water softeners. Click here to read.

Further Free Resources:

Got a question about water testing? Try our complete list of Free Water Testing Resources. Here are the most frequently read guides:

If you can&#;t find what you are looking for then please contact us, as we can source many other test kits. Discounts for bulk purchase available, please contact us to find out more.

Disclaimer: Only opinions based upon our own personal experience or information detailed in academic journals or other publications is cited. This has been done exclusively for anyone who is interested in this subject but is not intended to replace proper analysis. We cannot accept responsibility and liability of any kind which may result from the application of this information. We always recommend to consult an expert to discuss any test results or get a full recommendation on the specific subject and specific to your situation by an expert.

This information is owned by SimplexHealth and you do NOT have the right to reprint, sell, auction or distribute this information.

There are strict standards for the quality of drinking water within Europe mainly laid down in the EU Drinking Water Directive (98/83/EC). These are based on advice from the World Health Organisation (WHO).

For more information, please visit Wholesale Whole House Water Filtration Systems.